Ward, on loan from Coventry since the middle of last month, missed the weekend win at Bristol City due to a twisted testicle but following a visit to hospital the central defender could be ready to play some part.
Manager Sean O'Driscoll is not expected to make any changes to his side after seeing them put five past Bristol City at Ashton Gate.
Centre-half Shelton Martis (hamstring) and midfielder Martin Woods (groin) are expected to return at the weekend but the clash at Deepdale has come too soon.
Skipper Brian Stock remains sidelined due to a back problem, while the other central defender, Jason Shackell (groin), is still unavailable.Adam Lockwood has travelled with the squad and could be set to earn a place on the substitutes bench if Elliot Ward hasn't recovered from his recent discomfort